Ground Clearance: What Is It and Why Is It Important for Vehicles?-image
tips and tricks
22 September 2025

Ground Clearance: What Is It and Why Is It Important for Vehicles?

Ground clearance plays a vital role in supporting both driving comfort and vehicle performance. Every car has a different ground clearance, especially when comparing SUVs, sedans, and crossovers. Ground clearance is the distance between the lowest part of a car and the road surface.

The height of a vehicle’s ground clearance affects how smoothly it passes through various road conditions—such as uneven surfaces, bumps, and puddles. Car owners can also adjust their vehicle’s ground clearance depending on their needs, either by raising or lowering it.

Through this article, let’s understand the functions of ground clearance and how to adjust its height properly.

What Is Ground Clearance?

Ground clearance refers to the distance between the lowest point of a car’s components and the ground surface. This space under the car is often referred to as the undercarriage.

Many people assume that ground clearance is determined by the tire size. However, the measurement actually refers to the lowest component of the vehicle. This lowest point is not the body or footstep, but rather parts like the exhaust system, especially the center muffler.

SUVs generally have higher ground clearance. This higher clearance allows the car to pass through damaged or bumpy roads, speed bumps, and puddles more easily.

Meanwhile, sedans usually have lower ground clearance, which provides better stability and aerodynamics at high speeds on smooth roads.

High ground clearance is typically above 200 mm, making it suitable for rough terrain or uneven roads. Low ground clearance, around 170–180 mm, is more ideal for city cars or driving on flat roads.

Why Is Ground Clearance Important?

Ground clearance is not just about the undercarriage—it has several important functions for both the car and driving conditions. That’s why automakers design vehicles with specific ground clearance measurements.

Here are some key functions of ground clearance that car owners should know:

  1. Easier Passage Over Uneven Roads

Ground clearance allows vehicles to drive more smoothly over uneven surfaces. A car with higher ground clearance can pass through bumps or rough roads with ease.

On the other hand, cars with low ground clearance often struggle when passing through bumps, speed bumps, or puddles. Since the distance between the car body and the ground is very low, the undercarriage is more vulnerable to scraping or damage.

  1. Prevents Water from Entering the Engine

Another function of ground clearance is to help prevent water from entering the engine when driving through puddles or floods. Cars with low ground clearance are at risk of water seeping into the engine, which can cause severe damage to components such as the combustion system and electrical system.

In contrast, cars with high ground clearance are safer from the risk of water entering the engine. Such vehicles are more reliable when used on wet or flooded roads since their undercarriage is positioned higher above the ground.

  1. Affects Suspension Performance

Ground clearance also influences the performance of a car’s suspension system. The suspension plays a key role in absorbing vibrations when driving over uneven surfaces. If ground clearance is too low, the suspension has to work extra hard to absorb shocks.

Meanwhile, cars with higher ground clearance can absorb vibrations more smoothly. When passing over uneven roads, they can move up and down gently while maintaining stability.

  1. Maintains Stability at High Speeds

Ground clearance also contributes to a car’s stability at high speeds. Vehicles with low ground clearance tend to be more easily affected by wind or uneven road surfaces, which reduces comfort and makes it harder for drivers to maintain control.

On the other hand, if ground clearance is too high, the car can become unstable in strong winds, especially on open roads at high speeds. Therefore, a balanced ground clearance is essential for both stability and comfort.

How to Adjust Ground Clearance

Ground clearance that is too high or too low is not ideal for performance. Moreover, every driver has their own preferred ground clearance depending on driving needs.

Although ground clearance is factory-set, car owners can still adjust it. You can raise or lower it depending on your requirements.

You can increase ground clearance by replacing the tires with larger ones, installing a lift kit, or upgrading the suspension. Larger tires will immediately raise the car’s height from the ground. A body lift kit can also be used to raise the body from the frame without altering the suspension system.

To lower ground clearance, you can use a lowering kit or coilovers. You may also replace the springs and shock absorbers, or manually adjust suspension height if possible.

A lowering kit includes shorter and stiffer coil springs, commonly used in sedans or hatchbacks for a sportier look and performance. Coilovers combine shock absorbers and springs into a single adjustable unit, allowing for precise height customization.

What Is the Ground Clearance of Chery SUVs?

Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) typically have higher ground clearance compared to sedans or crossovers. SUVs are designed with greater clearance for off-road capabilities across various terrains.

So, what about the ground clearance of Chery SUVs? Each Chery SUV model may have different specifications. Additionally, the undercarriage height may vary slightly depending on whether the vehicle is loaded or empty.

The Chery J6 has a ground clearance of 170 mm when carrying a load and 223 mm when empty. The OMODA E5 has a ground clearance of 190 mm. The Chery Tiggo 8 offers 200–207 mm, the Tiggo 5x 1.5 Turbo 190 mm, and so on.

What Is Considered a Good Ground Clearance?

The ideal ground clearance depends on the type of vehicle and the road conditions it frequently encounters. For passenger cars like sedans, a ground clearance of around 170–180 mm is sufficient. Meanwhile, for SUVs or crossovers that often face rough terrain, the ideal ground clearance is typically between 200–220 mm.

In conclusion, ground clearance plays an essential role in ensuring both comfort and driving performance. It allows vehicles to pass over uneven roads, avoid water intrusion, and maintain stability.

Now that you understand its importance, it’s time to choose a car with the right ground clearance for your needs. Explore specifications and discover various models at chery.co.id to find your ideal vehicle.

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Chery Appears at GJAW 2025, Showcasing a Futuristic Booth, Activities, and the Most Exciting Experiences
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Chery Appears at GJAW 2025, Showcasing a Futuristic Booth, Activities, and the Most Exciting Experiences

Chery demonstrates its commitment to the Indonesian automotive market by presenting a larger, futuristic booth at GJAW 2025. This expansion is not just about appearance, but also reflects Chery’s strategy to offer a more diverse and modern product lineup.

Chery’s booth at ICE BSD, Tangerang, is also filled with various activities and experience areas. Visitors can explore Chery’s vehicle technologies firsthand and enjoy a range of interactive experiences with Chery's products.

During the event, PT Chery Sales Indonesia (CSI) announced the price of the J6T off-road EV, introduced two new variants of the Tiggo 8 CSH, and showcased the Chery X concept car. With a significantly larger exhibition space, Chery is able to display more flagship models and provide interactive areas for visitors.

Chery Presents a Futuristic Booth

The futuristic-style booth serves as Chery’s way of reinforcing its commitment to delivering modern, technology-driven vehicles. At GJAW 2025, Chery has also expanded its exhibition area from 800 m² to 1,280 m².

With a larger space, Chery can showcase more models, from concept vehicles to its lineup of electric and hybrid SUVs. Visitors can explore various eco-friendly models based on the Chery Super Hybrid (CSH) platform and take a closer look at Chery’s flagship SUVs, including the TIGGO Series, Chery C5, and E5.

Interactive Activities at the Chery Booth

Chery offers a variety of interactive activities to introduce the brand’s identity in design, cabin comfort, and electrification technology. Through these activities, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the Chery products on display.

At this exhibition, Chery showcases the J6T with two drivetrain options: FWD and IWD. The RWD variant is priced at Rp525,500,000 and equipped with a 65.9 kWh battery, offering a driving range of up to 431 km (NEDC). Meanwhile, the IWD variant is priced at Rp585,500,000, featuring a 69.77 kWh battery and a range of up to 436 km (NEDC).

Chery also introduces the Tiggo 8 CSH Comfort and AWD variants to complete the lineup, following the earlier launch of the Premium type. The Comfort variant is priced at Rp439,900,000 (OTR Jakarta), while the AWD variant, which offers higher performance, is marketed at around Rp559,900,000.

At GJAW 2025, Chery also officially showcases the Chery X concept car, previously introduced in China as T1TP. This unique model combines the comfort of a family SUV with the practicality of a double-cab pickup, offering exceptional flexibility in a single vehicle.

A Variety of Exciting Experiences at the Chery Booth

Visitors are not only able to view the vehicles at the Chery booth, but they can also experience Chery’s technologies firsthand through the test drive area and other interactive programs. All CSH models are available for testing, allowing visitors to feel the engine characteristics, smoother power delivery, and improved fuel efficiency.

To attract consumer interest, Chery also offers various special benefits during GJAW 2025. For the first 1,000 buyers, a Lifetime Warranty is provided, covering the battery, electric motor, and controller. In addition, each vehicle purchase includes a free 7 kW Wall Charger, three years of Road Assistance, and one year of tire insurance.

Read also: Differences Between The J6 and J6T: Upgraded Features, Performance & Technology

Chery’s appearance with a futuristic booth at GJAW 2025 reinforces its commitment to delivering mobility products for the modern era. Throughout the exhibition, you can visit the booth to explore Chery’s vehicle lineup and experience the advanced technologies they offer up close.

If you’re looking for a modern, eco-friendly vehicle, whether an EV or a hybrid, explore the available models and their full specifications at chery.co.id.

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Chery at GJAW 2025: The Most Complete SUV Lineup for Families & Adventure
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Chery at GJAW 2025: The Most Complete SUV Lineup for Families & Adventure

Chery went all out at the GAIKINDO Jakarta Auto Week (GJAW) 2025 automotive exhibition, held on November 21–30 at ICE BSD, Tangerang. This year, Chery expanded its booth area from the previous 800 m² to 1,280 m². In addition to showcasing a large futuristic booth, Chery also brought its most complete SUV lineup.

Chery showcased more vehicle models at this year’s GJAW, including SUVs designed for modern family use as well as off-road adventures. The event also served as a momentum for Chery to launch several of its newest models and provide visitors with the opportunity to test drive them.

All these offerings were presented to meet the needs of modern mobility. Let’s take a look at the lineup Chery displayed at this automotive exhibition and the new breakthroughs introduced.

Chery Vehicle Lineup at GJAW 2025

This year, the Chery booth showcased an even more complete range of premium SUVs, including the TIGGO Series (TIGGO Cross CSH Hybrid, TIGGO 8 CSH, TIGGO 9 CSH AWD), the J6 Series, Chery C5, Chery E5, as well as various models equipped with Chery Super Hybrid (CSH) technology.

Visitors also had the chance to directly experience the performance of several Chery models in the test drive area. For those who have been curious, you could try out the driving sensation of the TIGGO Cross CSH Hybrid, TIGGO 8 CSH, TIGGO 9 CSH AWD, and the Chery J6T.

Chery Cars for Family Choices at GJAW

The Chery Tiggo CSH series is an ideal choice for families thanks to its 7-seat configuration, spacious cabin, and comprehensive modern comfort and safety features. Its hybrid technology offers a balance of responsive power and fuel efficiency, making the Tiggo CSH series a versatile premium SUV for various needs.

At this year’s GJAW event, Chery also introduced two new variants, the Tiggo 8 CSH Comfort and Tiggo 8 CSH AWD, to reach a broader range of consumers. With a blend of hybrid technology, efficiency, and complete features, the Tiggo 8 CSH models are highly supportive of family mobility needs.

The Tiggo 8 CSH Comfort variant is priced starting at IDR 439.9 million as the most affordable option. Meanwhile, the Tiggo 8 CSH AWD, positioned as the top variant, is offered at IDR 555.9 million.

Chery’s Off-road Vehicles Featured at GJAW

Chery took advantage of the GJAW 2025 event as an opportunity to introduce the Chery J6T to Indonesian consumers. The J6T serves as the highest variant of the enhanced J6 series. This robust vehicle offers stronger off-road capabilities, advanced technology, and cabin comfort to support adventurous activities.

Chery also brought the Chery X to Indonesia for its global concept debut. The arrival of this “Ultimate Space Family Multi-SUV” concept marks an important milestone for Chery, as Indonesia becomes the location for its international launch following its official introduction in China last October.

One of its key innovations is the “6=1” concept, which allows a single vehicle to offer six different configurations. Thanks to its modular design, this future Chery SUV can be transformed into a seven-seater SUV, a tough double-cabin pickup, or even a camper van complete with a rooftop tent and external power supply.

Read also: Differences Between The J6 and J6T: Upgraded Features, Performance & Technology

All of Chery’s flagship models can be found at booth 8B, ICE BSD Tangerang, throughout the period of November 21–30, 2025. Through test-drive sessions and various interactive programs, Chery invites visitors to directly experience the performance, design, and technological innovations it offers.

If you are looking for an advanced and eco-friendly vehicle, whether EV or hybrid, be sure to explore Chery’s models and their full specifications at chery.co.id.

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Advantages of the J6T Compared to Competitors in the Electric Off-Road SUV Segment
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02 December 2025

Advantages of the J6T Compared to Competitors in the Electric Off-Road SUV Segment

The arrival of the Chery J6T in Indonesia is set to enliven the electric SUV segment. The J6T comes as the highest variant of the J6 model, which was launched earlier. Designed as an off-road EV, the J6T offers superior specifications in several aspects, including performance, design, safety systems, and more.

The Chery J6T is ready to become an ideal choice for users seeking an eco-friendly electric vehicle that remains tough across various terrains. With prices starting from around Rp500 million, the J6T delivers dependable specifications for its class. Although engineered for off-road adventures, the J6T still brings a range of modern technologies.

Let’s take a look at some of the J6T's advantages compared to competitors, especially within the electric off-road SUV segment.

1. Powerful Performance

The Chery J6T offers highly competitive performance in its class thanks to two configuration options: RWD and iWD (AWD). The RWD variant produces 184 PS with 220 Nm of torque, making it very capable for daily mobility.

Meanwhile, the iWD variant delivers a significant performance boost with up to 279 PS and 385 Nm of torque. This impressive power makes the J6T highly responsive in various road conditions. Additionally, it can accelerate from 0–100 km/h in just 6.5 seconds.

For both city use and tackling rough terrains, the Chery J6T provides flexibility with 8 selectable driving modes. Modes such as Muddy, Sand, Slippery Road, and Bumpy Road offer more precise control across different surfaces. This versatility makes the J6T an urban EV that is also ready for exploration.

2. Large-Capacity Battery and V2L Feature

The Chery J6T uses an LFP battery known for being heat-resistant, stable, and highly safe for long-term use. The 65.69 kWh (RWD) and 69.77 kWh (iWD) battery packs offer a driving range of 431–436 km based on NEDC standards.

Beyond its efficient range, the J6T also excels in charging speed, achieving 30%–80% fast charging in just 25 minutes. Interestingly, this electric SUV also provides a Vehicle to Load (V2L) feature, which is extremely useful for outdoor activities. The feature becomes highly beneficial when users need electrical power during travel.

Another advantage of the J6T’s battery lies in its protection system. With triple armor protection and the ability to wade through water up to 625 mm, the J6T stands out as one of the toughest EVs for tropical climates.

3. Masculine Yet Stylish Design

The Chery J6T features the “Fashion Cube Box Design” concept, combining urban, sporty, and rugged characteristics. Its boxy silhouette offers a modern yet functional appeal, suitable for young users or families seeking a stylish SUV.

The exterior of the J6T looks bold with a black bumper featuring a new design line. The gloss-finished Front Dual Guard further adds a premium impression. LED fog lamps enhance functionality during extreme weather conditions. Meanwhile, the large 19-inch wheels with 245/55 tires strengthen its stance and provide stability across various terrains.

4. Rugged Body for Off-Road Terrain

The Chery J6T is presented as an electric SUV truly designed for adventure. Its dimensions of 4,433 × 1,916 × 1,741 mm with a 2,715 mm wheelbase give it proportions that are aggressive yet sturdy. Despite its increased size, the J6T is actually lighter thanks to the use of an aluminum frame that improves body rigidity by up to 30%.

One of the most striking advantages of the J6T is its 225 mm ground clearance, which is higher than most competitors. Combined with a 26° approach angle and 28° departure angle, the J6T is ready to tackle rough roads, steep inclines, and muddy terrain. These capabilities make the J6T known as an electric SUV that’s ready to venture beyond paved roads.

5. Modern and Premium Interior

The interior of the Chery J6T now appears more modern with a redesigned sun visor, an elegant center box, and a cabin layout that feels more ergonomic. These enhancements deliver a more premium driving experience without sacrificing practicality.

Additionally, the 9.2-inch instrument panel has been updated with a new layout that is more informative and easier to read. The J6T also retains its 15.6-inch touchscreen as the main control center, equipped with an intuitive interface.

The J6T further enhances comfort with its New Section Seat Surface Design, offering more ergonomic seating for long journeys. The use of a side-opening armrest box adds practicality, especially for daily use.

6. Comprehensive Safety and Security Systems

The Chery J6T comes equipped with a complete set of safety features, including ADAS such as Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist, and many others. It also supports off-road safety features like Hill Descent Control, which gives it an edge on steep terrains.

With a strong body structure and six airbags, the J6T meets global safety standards for modern SUVs. This electric SUV also features the Journey & Navigation app, enhancing driving safety and personalization during outdoor adventures.

The J6T’s battery safety is among the best in its class thanks to its triple armor protection. The battery system allows the vehicle to wade through water up to 625 mm, giving drivers confidence when crossing flooded or water-filled terrain.

Read also: Differences Between The J6 and J6T: Upgraded Features, Performance & Technology

Chery J6T not only delivers the powerful performance typical of an electric SUV but also combines safety, comfort, and modern technology. With its stylish design, off-road capability, and safe, efficient battery system, the Chery J6T becomes an appealing choice for consumers seeking an electric vehicle suited for various terrains.

If you’re looking for a reliable and durable electric SUV for daily use as well as adventure, the Chery J6T is definitely worth considering. Explore other Chery models and their full specifications at chery.co.id.

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